You’ll find Sacramento is more than just California’s capital city – it’s a family excursion waiting to happen. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or looking to fill your locals’ guide with fresh ideas, this lively city offers an impressive mix of educational fun and outdoor excitement for kids of all ages. From getting up close with exotic animals to exploring interactive science exhibits, your family won’t run out of memorable experiences to share. Let’s uncover the eight most engaging activities that’ll have your children asking when they can return to Sacramento.
Interactive Museums and Science Centers
Credit@SMUD Museum
Throughout Sacramento, interactive museums and science centers offer families endless opportunities for hands-on learning and exploration.
You’ll love watching your kids’ eyes light up at the SMUD Museum of Science and Curiosity’s STEAM exhibits and planetarium shows.
Don’t miss the California Automobile Museum’s impressive collection, the Aerospace Museum’s historic aircraft displays, and the Sacramento Children’s Museum’s family-friendly educational programs.
Outdoor Adventure Parks
Credit@Sacramento River
When your kids need to burn off extra energy, Sacramento’s outdoor escapades parks provide the perfect outlet.
You’ll love exploring Exploration Park’s scenic trails along the Sacramento River, where family outings become California memories.
For indoor thrills, head to The Boulder Field, where rock climbing challenges build confidence.
Don’t miss Urban Air Sacramento’s obstacle courses that’ll keep your little explorers entertained for hours.
Animal Encounters and Wildlife
Credit@Sacramento Zoo
Sacramento’s extraordinary animal encounters regularly enthrall young minds and create lasting memories.
You’ll find remarkable interactive exhibits at the Sacramento Zoo, where nearly 400 species await, and SeaQuest’s touch tanks let kids get hands-on with stingrays.
Don’t miss the Effie Yeaw Nature Center’s wildlife programs, Nimbus Fish Hatchery’s salmon displays, or even the California State Railroad Museum’s distinctive viewpoint on animals in railroad history.
Historic Old Sacramento Experience
Credit@California State Railroad Museum
Stepping onto Old Sacramento’s wooden sidewalks transports your family back to the exciting days of the Gold Rush era.
You’ll love exploring the historic waterfront’s unique shops and old-fashioned candy stores.
Don’t miss the California State Railroad Museum‘s incredible restored trains or the Sacramento History Museum’s interactive reenactments.
With year-round events and educational experiences, this nostalgic atmosphere creates unforgettable family entertainment that’ll have everyone smiling.
Creative Arts and Workshops
Credit@Home Depot’s free DIY workshops
Unleash your child’s creativity through Sacramento’s diverse array of hands-on workshops and artistic programs.
You’ll find incredible kids activities like Through the Looking Glass’s culinary workshops, where young chefs perfect baking skills, and Just For Fun Art’s lively painting parties and art camps.
Don’t miss Home Depot’s free DIY workshops or Comedy Spot’s performance classes that’ll enhance your child’s confidence through self-expression.
Family-Friendly Water Activities
Credit@Discovery Park’s splash pads
Plunge into invigorating escapade at Sacramento’s premier water destinations, where families can escape the Valley heat in style.
You’ll find endless family-friendly exploits at Raging Waters, or head to the American River for thrilling kayaking and paddleboarding sessions.
Let the kids splash around at Discovery Park’s splash pads, or take a scenic excursion to Lake Natoma, where you can rent everything from canoes to hydro bikes.
Local Festivals and Events
Credit@California State Fair
Throughout Sacramento’s lively calendar, you’ll uncover an exciting lineup of festivals and events that keep families entertained year-round.
Don’t miss the California State Fair‘s thrilling rides and exhibits, or the interactive experiences at Second Saturday events.
You can catch remarkable performances at the Sacramento Music Festival, enjoy seasonal festivals with local treats, and spread out your blanket for family-friendly Moonlight Movies under the stars.
Sports and Recreation Spots
Credit@Rebounderz Sacramento
Sacramento’s lively sports and recreation scene offers endless opportunities for families to stay active and have fun together.
You’ll love catching a River Cats game at Sutter Health Park, where kids can investigate the playground between innings.
Head to Rebounderz Sacramento for bouncing fun, enjoy water sports at Lake Natoma, challenge yourselves at Boulder Field’s climbing walls, or bike along the scenic American River Parkway.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Sacramento Good for Families?
You’ll find Sacramento incredibly family-friendly with its educational museums, interactive exhibits, outdoor excursions in local parks, and year-round cultural festivals. The city’s rich community resources and family events make it perfect for raising kids.
What to Do in Sacramento With a Toddler?
You’ll find plenty for your toddler in Sacramento, from Fairytale Town’s interactive playsets to the Zoo’s petting areas. Don’t miss Funderland’s age-appropriate rides, Exploration Park’s nature walks, and Rebounderz’s special toddler zone.
What Is Special in Sacramento?
You’ll uncover Sacramento’s rich history, farm-to-fork cuisine, outdoor escapades, and diverse cultural festivals. The city offers educational museums, family-friendly parks, wildlife encounters, lively farmers markets, and engaging art galleries for everyone to enjoy.
What Is Sacramento Best Known For?
You’ll find Sacramento’s best known for being California’s capital, its historic Gold Rush sites, farm-to-fork dining scene, and lively cultural mix. It’s also famous for river activities, diverse museums, outdoor explorations, and thriving arts community.
Conclusion
You’re now ready to create unforgettable family memories in Sacramento! Whether you’re exploring the hands-on exhibits at SMUD Museum, feeding giraffes at the zoo, or stepping back in time in Old Sacramento, there’s never a dull moment in California’s capital city. Don’t forget to check seasonal events and festivals before your visit – they’ll add an extra spark of magic to your family excursion. Now get out there and start making those memories!